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Gender does matter in perinatal medicine.
Eyal Sheiner1, Amalia Levy, Miriam Katz
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Soroka University Medical Center, Ben Gurion, Israel. sheiner@bgumail.bgu.ac.il
Fetal Diagnosis and Therapy
|June 12, 2004
Summary
Male fetuses are linked to increased pregnancy complications and adverse outcomes. This study found male gender to be an independent risk factor for poorer pregnancy results.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Perinatal Medicine
- Reproductive Health
Background:
- Pregnancy outcomes can be influenced by fetal sex.
- Understanding sex-specific risks is crucial for optimizing maternal and fetal care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare pregnancy complications and outcomes between male and female fetuses.
- To identify if fetal sex is an independent risk factor for adverse pregnancy outcomes.
Main Methods:
- A population-based study analyzed singleton deliveries from 1988-1999.
- Pregnancies with male versus female fetuses were compared, excluding prior cesarean sections (CS).
- Statistical analyses included Mantel-Haenszel technique and multiple logistic regression to control for confounders.
Main Results:
- Male fetuses were associated with higher rates of gestational diabetes mellitus, fetal macrosomia, labor progression failure, cord prolapse, nuchal cord, and true umbilical cord knots.
- Cesarean section (CS) rates were higher for male neonates (8.7% vs. 7.9%).
- Male gender independently predicted non-reassuring fetal heart rate patterns, low Apgar scores at 5 minutes, and CS, even after controlling for confounders.
Conclusions:
- Male gender is an independent risk factor for adverse pregnancy outcomes.
- These findings highlight the importance of considering fetal sex in risk assessment and management during pregnancy.